June 30, 2015

The main purpose of this research work was to addresses aggressive environmental exposure effects on DOT-CFFC composite cylinders, and the use of Modal Acoustic Emission (MAE) examination of the cylinders to identify cylinders with compromised strength due to the aggressive environmental exposure. In this study the effects of hard water exposure on the aluminum liner, chemical exposure to the composite overwrap, salt water immersion of the composite cylinder, and structural fire exposure of the composite cylinder were evaluated. This study was a follow up to previous research project, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) Composite Cylinder Life Extension Research Project completed in June 2014. This R&D project was developed by PHMSA, Hazardous Materials Engineering and Research Division. The final report for this R&D project includes mechanical (performance) and nondestructive testing (NDT) data and conclusion. The R&D project will be used as basis for equivalent-safety-evaluation (ESE) of these SCBA composite cylinders that may be used beyond their 15 year service life under a certain conditions and operational controls which includes requalification of each cylinder by using Modal Acoustic Emission (MAE) testing.

For technical question, contact Mr. Mark Toughiry, 202-366-4545.